Gene Hackman, the esteemed actor renowned for his versatile performances, was found deceased alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog at their Santa Fe, New Mexico residence on February 26, 2025. He was 95 years old. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported no immediate signs of foul play, and investigations into the cause of death are ongoing.
Born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, Hackman served in the U.S. Marine Corps before pursuing acting. He gained prominence with his role in “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967) and won his first Academy Award for Best Actor in “The French Connection” (1971). His second Oscar came for Best Supporting Actor in “Unforgiven” (1992). Hackman’s diverse filmography includes notable performances in “The Conversation” (1974), “Hoosiers” (1986), “No Way Out” (1987), and as Lex Luthor in the “Superman” series.
In 1991, Hackman married classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, and the couple settled in Santa Fe. After retiring from acting in 2004, he dedicated his time to writing historical fiction novels and indulging in interests such as architecture and design. Hackman is survived by his three children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese.
Tributes have poured in from the film community, with director Francis Ford Coppola expressing admiration for Hackman’s talent and legacy. Hackman’s contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark, and he will be remembered as one of the most versatile and compelling actors of his generation.
